Erika Kirk delivered a heartfelt and emotional speech at the memorial for her late husband, Charlie Kirk, on Sunday. Charlie was tragically killed earlier this month while speaking at an event organized by his organization, Turning Point USA, at Utah Valley University. The memorial drew a crowd of over 60,000 people, including notable figures like Donald Trump and JD Vance.
In an interview with the New York Times, Erika shared a poignant memory from when she first saw Charlie’s body after the shooting. She described how his eyes were semi-open and how he wore a faint, peaceful smile, which gave her comfort. Erika said it seemed as though Charlie died happy and at peace, as if “Jesus rescued him.”
During her memorial speech, Erika spoke openly about the pain and shock she felt upon seeing her husband’s injuries. Despite the heartbreak, she said she still saw the man she loved even in death. She recounted the moment as both devastating and revealing of Charlie’s strength and spirit.
Erika also mentioned that a surgeon reassured her that Charlie did not suffer during the incident. She said the doctor explained that the injury was so sudden and severe that there was no pain or fear. This brought her some solace amid the tragedy.
She recalled how, moments before the shooting, Charlie was doing what he loved — debating and speaking passionately on campus. Then, in an instant, he “blinked” and was gone, finding peace beyond this life.
Erika Kirk was recently named CEO of Turning Point USA, a role she now carries with the determination to continue her husband’s mission. Her speech and interview reflect both her deep personal loss and her commitment to honoring Charlie’s legacy.
